Pope Leo XIV on Sunday declared Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian computer whiz who died in 2006, as the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint. The canonization took place during a Mass in St. Peter’s Square before tens of thousands of pilgrims, many of them young Catholics drawn to Acutis’ story of faith lived in the digital age.
Acutis, often referred to as “God’s influencer,” became known for his devotion to the Eucharist and his skill in using technology to spread Catholic teachings. As a teenager, he created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles worldwide, a project remarkable for its sophistication at a time when such online resources were rare. His ability to combine technical expertise with spiritual devotion made him an appealing figure for a church seeking to connect with younger generations.
Born in London in 1991 and raised in Milan, Acutis led what seemed like an ordinary childhood until his deepening faith set him apart. Known for limiting his video game use to just one hour a week, he prioritized prayer, service, and personal connections. His life was cut short in October 2006, when he succumbed to leukemia within days of diagnosis. He was buried in Assisi, where his tomb has since become a pilgrimage site visited by millions.
The Vatican’s recognition of Acutis reflects an effort to highlight models of holiness who resonate with contemporary life. His preserved body, displayed in jeans and sneakers, has furthered his reputation as a saint young Catholics can see as one of their own.
Acutis was canonized alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, a 20th-century Italian layman remembered for his service to the poor. Together, their elevation underscored themes of youthful devotion and lay witness in the church.
The event marked the first canonization Mass of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate, following the death of Pope Francis earlier this year. The ceremony drew widespread attention not only for its historical significance but also for its symbolism: a new saint for a generation navigating faith amid the promises and perils of the digital world.
Source: The Conversation